Application of Thulium 1927-nm Laser for Androgenic Alopecia Treatment in Indonesian Patients

Introduction: Androgenic alopecia (AGA) is the most prevalent form of hair loss, affecting both males and females. Current treatment modalities show varying degrees of efficacy, including high recurrence rates, potential adverse effects, and surgical trauma. The 1927-nm thulium laser has emerged as a promising alternative treatment, offering long-term benefits with good patient tolerability and minimal side effects. Methods: A pre- and post-treatment study design was utilized to assess the efficacy of 1927-nm thulium laser therapy in ten patients with AGA. The procedure involved laser application with a pulse duration of 300 µs, power output of 5 W, and a treatment distance of 0.7 mm, performed without anesthesia. Participants underwent two treatment sessions at two-week intervals, followed by a post-treatment evaluation two weeks after the final session. The primary outcome was the Global Photographic Assessment, based on a 7-point scale evaluating standardized clinical photographs before and after treatment. The secondary outcome was patient satisfaction, measured using the Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale (GAIS). Statistical analysis was conducted using paired t-tests for parametric data and Wilcoxon signed-rank tests for non-parametric data, with a two-tailed significance threshold. Results: A significant clinical improvement was observed at follow-ups 1 and 2 when compared to baseline, with scores (mean±SD) of 1.10±0.316 and 2.00±0.471 (P<0.05). The patients also scored their satisfaction, which showed a significant improvement compared to baseline, with scores of 1.90±0.316 and 3.00±0.471 for follow-ups 1 and 2, respectively (P<0.05). No treatment-related adverse events were reported, and pain levels during the procedure were minimal. Conclusion: Thulium laser therapy is safe and effective in short-term evaluation for hair regrowth in AGA patients.